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Nature

Lily Beetle

What is lily beetle?

· Emily Grant

Key facts

Scientific name Lilioceris lilii[1]
Common names red lily beetle, scarlet lily beetle, lily leaf beetle[2]
Family Chrysomelidae[1]
Host plants lilies (Lilium) and fritillaries (Fritillaria)[1]
First found in Canada Quebec, 1943[2]

The lily beetle is a leaf beetle, *Lilioceris lilii*, that is a pest of lilies and fritillaries, known by several common names including red lily beetle and scarlet lily beetle.

Context

The lily beetle is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, known scientifically as *Lilioceris lilii* [1]. It is also called the red lily beetle, scarlet lily beetle, or lily leaf beetle [2]. Adults feed on leaves, stems, buds, and flowers, while larvae feed on the leaves of lilies and fritillaries [1]. The species was first found in Quebec, Canada, in 1943 and is considered introduced from Eurasia [2]. Unlike some other garden pests such as the scarab beetle or Japanese beetle, the lily beetle targets specific host plants, making it a particular concern for lily growers.

Documented claims

  • Adults feed on leaves, stems, buds, and flowers of host plants. [1]
  • Larvae feed on the leaves of lilies and fritillaries. [1]
  • The species is described as introduced from Eurasia to North America. [2]

Related

Carpet BeetleCarpet beetles are also common household pests that damage fabrics.Blister BeetleBlister beetles are another type of beetle that can be harmful to plants and humans.Stag BeetleStag beetles are a well-known type of beetle with distinctive mandibles.

Questions and answers

How do I get rid of lily beetles?

Control methods are not detailed in the sources, but identifying the beetle and its life stages is the first step. Adults and larvae feed on lilies and fritillaries, so monitoring these plants is key [1].

What do you spray for lily leaf beetles?

The sources do not specify a particular spray. However, because the beetle is a leaf beetle, contact insecticides are often considered, but always check local recommendations [1].

Will lily beetles eat other plants?

The sources indicate that lily beetles feed on lilies and fritillaries, not on other plants. Adults may feed on leaves, stems, buds, and flowers of these hosts [1].

Where did lily beetles come from?

The species is described as introduced from Eurasia. It was first found in Quebec, Canada, in 1943 [2].

Sources

  1. Lily Leaf Beetle - Wisconsin Horticulture — hort.extension.wisc.edu (retrieved August 3, 2026)
  2. Lily beetle - Notcutts — notcutts.co.uk (retrieved August 3, 2026)

Sources last checked August 3, 2026. · More in Nature